Asthma in Children and Adults—What Are the Differences

1. Asthma in Children and Adults—What Are the Differences Asthma is a common respiratory condition that affects people of all ages, but it can be particularly troublesome for children and adults. In this blog, we will explore the differences between asthma in children and adults, including the different types of asthma, common symptoms, and treatment options for healing asthma.

3. Childhood Onset Asthma Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that can cause difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing. It is one of the most common chronic diseases in children. According to data by WHO around 300 million people are currently suffering from asthma and among which 6 million children are only from the United States. Childhood asthma typically begins in early childhood, with the average age of onset being around 5 years. Boys are more likely to develop asthma than girls, and children with a family history of asthma are at an increased risk. Asthma symptoms in children can vary, but they often include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Asthma attacks, also known as exacerbations, can be triggered by a variety of factors including respiratory infections, exposure to allergens, or exercise. Childhood asthma is often managed with a combination of medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, and environmental controls to reduce exposure to triggers. With proper management, most children with asthma can live active and healthy lives. Adult Onset Asthma While asthma is typically thought of as a childhood disease, it can also develop in adults. Adult-onset asthma, also known as late-onset asthma, is defined as the development of asthma symptoms after the age of 20. Unlike childhood-onset asthma, adult-onset asthma is more common in women and is not typically associated with a family history of asthma. It is also more likely to be triggered by occupational or environmental factors, such as exposure to allergens or chemicals at work.

4. Symptoms of adult-onset asthma are similar to those seen in children, including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. However, adults may also experience additional symptoms such as chest tightness and shortness of breath. Treatment Options Treatment for asthma in both children and adults typically involves a combination of medications and environmental controls. Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and other medications can help control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks. Environmental controls, such as reducing exposure to allergens and irritants, can also play a key role in managing asthma. This can include things like avoiding triggers, using air purifiers and maintaining a smoke-free environment. In severe cases, other treatment options may be considered, such as immunotherapy or biological medications. These treatments can help reduce inflammation in the airways and improve symptoms in individuals with difficult-to-control asthma but these methods cannot heal asthma from its source. The Bottom Line Asthma is a common respiratory condition that can affect people of all ages. While it is often thought of as a childhood disease, it can also develop in adults. Symptoms, triggers, and treatment options may differ between childhood and adult-onset asthma, so it is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized management plan. With proper management, most individuals can heal their asthma and live an active and healthy life. Want to know more about how to heal asthma through holistic care? Head to the free Mini Course on Healing Asthma Holistically today and take a step ahead towards a asthma-free lifestyle.